Eric Cantona: Jim Ratcliffe and co are destroying Man Utd

Ratcliffe, a British billionaire and lifelong fan of the club, acquired a minority stake in United in February 2024 and took control of football operations soon after.

As the owner of INEOS, he wasted no time in making sweeping changes, including the sacking of Erik ten Hag and the appointment of Ruben Amorim as manager.

However, the club's fortunes on the pitch have not improved. United languish in 13th place in the Premier League, leading to growing concerns among fans and former players alike.

Cantona, never shy of sharing his opinion, has expressed deep disappointment in the direction Ratcliffe is taking the club.

In a bold move, Ratcliffe has also unveiled plans to build a new 100,000-capacity stadium, a decision that has divided opinion among supporters. While some see it as a step towards modernisation, others fear it symbolises a detachment from the club's roots.

"Since Ratcliffe arrived this team of directors try to destroy everything and they don't respect anybody," Cantona told reporters.

"They even want to change the stadium. The soul of the team and the club is not in the players. All the people around is like a big family. It's very important to respect these people like you respect your manager and team-mates.

"Since Ratcliffe arrived, it's the complete opposite. He doesn't want Sir Alex Ferguson as an ambassador any more. He is more than a legend and I think we have to find this soul again."